Port Charlottetown sees increase in traffic in 2017

The Journal Pioneer

Published: Nov 14, 2017 at 8:01 a.m.

Updated: Nov 14, 2017 at 11:02 a.m.

The Pearl Mist, left, pales in the Port of Charlottetown near the Norwegian Dawn. - Jim Day

CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. - Port Charlottetown wrapped up the cruise season with about 90,000 passengers and more than 40,000 crew visiting, representing a total direct economic impact of just under $15.5 million.

While there were a number of cancellations due to speed restrictions and weather, the season was still one of the best years on record for Port Charlottetown.

“The debarkation in Charlottetown is one of the highest in the region, and that tells us the demand is here for visiting lines,” said Les Parsons, CEO of Port Charlottetown. “In addition to a high debarkation, we also have one of the highest passenger spends, which is great news for Island businesses.”

In addition to strong numbers, Charlottetown welcomed a number of new cruise lines and ships this year.

The inaugural calls from the Silver Muse, Vision of the Seas, Mein Schiff 6, Disney Magic and Norwegian Jade are proof of a growing industry.

“Welcoming Disney Cruise Lines for the first time to Prince Edward Island was a great opportunity for the port to engage the local community and increase awareness of cruise on the Island,” says Corryn Clemence, business development manager for the port.

“We want the public to enjoy the port as much as visiting passengers and crew do and this was a great chance for us to showcase the improvements made to the waterfront.”

Port Charlottetown is looking to another record setting year in 2018 and is anticipating a schedule release early in the new year.